Melasma (Chloasma, Pregnancy Mask)

Melasma (Chloasma, Pregnancy Mask) is a pigmentary disorder which generally affects women in their childbearing age. Oral contraceptives and hormones would play an important role in their appearance.

It is important for the dermatologist (skin doctor) to classify melasma:

according to location: it can be located in the middle of the face (centrofacial) or more peripherally. It is also rarely located outside of the face (ABCD: Acquired brachial cutaneous dyschromatosis)

according to depth: in can be epidermal, dermal, or mixed (most common type). Examination with Wood’s lightis invaluable.

It is a difficult problem to treat as the condition may recur once treatment is stopped. It is generally good to start with creams with appropriate sunprotection.

Chemical peels can be considered and will act on the superficial aspect of the pigmentation. Lasers are sometimes useful but it is important to understand the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in darker skin types.

About Dr Christophe HSU

Dr HSU is an internationally seasoned dermatologist who has lived as an expatriate and who therefore understands the difficulty in finding a like-minded healthcare provider in a sometimes intimidating environment. [(dermatologue) in French]